>I received word a short while ago from Middletown Democratic Chairman Joe Caliendo, that he had officially received the resignation of Democratic candidate Alex Desevo and forwarded it on to the Monmouth County Clerk’s office.

Caliendo said that a replacement candidate will be chosen tomorrow night to succeed Desevo on the November ballot, when names will be presented to the members of the full body of Middletown Democratic Executive Committee.

When I asked Chairman Caliendo the names of those who were interested in joining Jim Grenafege on the Democratic ticket this year, I was told with the understanding I was not to say anything until after the full Executive Committee had a chance to meeting give it’s approval.

After hearing the names of those interested I can say this, there are names that are familiar and new to Committee members. It should make for an interesting meeting, I’ll let everyone know afterwards.

Checkout the Asbury Park Press for some other details, I just noticed that they beat me to posting ( damn, I hate that I get home from work so late)

>I have received the following request from Middletown Deputy Police Chief Craig Weber, asking residents for information regarding a rash of vandalism at neighborhood parks around town. Any information that can be provided would be greatly appreciated:

Middletown Police report that a number of Parks and Recreation facilities have been damaged and vandalized during the past week. Among the damaged facilities were two baseball fields at Middletown Thompson Park including the Challenger Youth baseball field, which is intended for the use of athletes with special needs. Middletown Thompson Park is located on Newman Springs Road in Lincroft. Newly-sodded soccer fields at the Fairview Soccer Fields on Oak Hill Rd. were extensively damaged by unknown persons joy riding on the fields. Baseball and softball fields at Normandy Park on Nut Swamp Rd., and Applebrook Park on Iler Drive, were also damaged by unknown vehicles being driven on the fields. In addition, a portable outdoor bathroom located at Lincroft Acres Park on Orchard Hill Drive, Lincroft was damaged after it was intentionally struck by a vehicle and knocked over. A park bench, concrete steps and hand railing in Tindall Park, Tindall Road have also been destroyed.

Parks in Middletown are generally closed to the public at dusk, unless permission is obtained from the Parks and Recreation Dept. or the facility is lighted and specifically designated for after hour use. Police are asking citizens to call and report any suspicious activities or incidents of people misusing or damaging Township Parks and Recreation facilities or property. The Middletown Policemen’s Benevolent Association is offering a reward of $ 500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for damaging the Parks. Call 732-615-2100.